Alvarez Yairi Guitars: A Story of Legacy and Innovation
Alvarez Yairi guitars have long been celebrated for their craftsmanship, tonewoods, and timeless sound. Among the most iconic instruments in their history are the Yairi “60” and “66” series, which earned a legendary reputation for using rare Honduran mahogany. This wood not only defined the series but also created a lasting mystique around Alvarez guitars. Now, as that original stock of mahogany nears depletion, Alvarez is taking careful steps to ensure the next generation of players will enjoy instruments that live up to the Yairi name.
The Discovery of the Legendary “Car Park” Mahogany
The story of Alvarez Yairi guitars took a dramatic turn when Chris Meikle of Alvarez stumbled upon a treasure trove of forgotten Honduran mahogany. While working on a Jack Pearson guitar, Meikle learned of wood stored on Mr. Yairi’s land, affectionately referred to as “the car park.” What appeared to be piles of oxidized, blackened timber turned out to be something extraordinary: massive planks of Honduran mahogany that had been air-drying for decades.
Factory workers estimated the wood had been seasoning for “maybe 45 years, 50 years,” with additional sets—around 800 in total—discovered at the Yairi factory. Measuring between 8–12 inches wide and up to 10 feet long, this wood became the foundation of the Yairi 60 and 66 series. It provided unparalleled tonal richness and contributed to the instruments’ reputation as some of the finest Alvarez Yairi guitars ever produced.
The End of an Era: Mahogany Running Out
Like all finite resources, the legendary “car park” Honduran mahogany couldn’t last forever. In recent years, Alvarez has confirmed that the stockpile is “just about out.” For fans of Alvarez Yairi guitars, this marked the end of a historic chapter—but not the end of the quality or legacy. Rather than retiring the series, Alvarez embarked on a global search to source mahogany that could match or exceed the legendary wood’s performance.
Partnering with Bill Hibden: A New Source of Excellence
After testing wood from four different suppliers, Alvarez partnered with Bill Hibden, a respected hardwood and tonewood supplier based in St. Louis. With over 60 years of experience, Hibden has built a reputation for securing some of the world’s best tonewoods. Unlike many suppliers who rely on intermediaries, Hibden has direct, long-term access to mills, ensuring Alvarez Yairi guitars receive consistent, high-quality cuts.
Side-by-side comparisons between guitars built with the original “car park” mahogany and Hibden’s sourced Honduran mahogany revealed that the new wood was “as good if not better.” Musicians described the tone as “amazing” and “perfect,” with Alvarez praising its consistency and uniformity. For the Yairi 60 and 66 series, this meant a seamless continuation of excellence without compromise.
Why Honduran Mahogany Matters in Alvarez Yairi Guitars
Honduran mahogany has long been prized by luthiers for its tonal balance, warmth, and resonance. Its ability to provide both depth and clarity makes it a cornerstone wood in acoustic guitar history. For Alvarez Yairi guitars, the use of this tonewood elevated the 60 and 66 series into instruments that weren’t just tools but works of art.
However, as mahogany has become increasingly rare, many manufacturers—including Martin—have adapted designs to conserve it. Alvarez’s decision to partner with Hibden ensures that Yairi guitars will continue to benefit from this prized material while maintaining sustainability and responsible sourcing.
Showcasing the Legacy: Honduran Alvarez Yairi Guitars
To glimpse what made Alvarez Yairi guitars legendary, look no further than the Alvarez Yairi Honduran Series FYM60HD (Adirondack top, Honduran mahogany OM). This model exemplifies the tonal beauty born from the decades-old "car park" mahogany — paired with a vintage Adirondack spruce top, it delivers the open, rich sound that made the Yairi series a favorite among discerning players and collectors.
Similarly, the Alvarez Yairi Honduran Series DYM60HD (Adirondack top, Honduran mahogany dreadnought)offers the full-bodied projection and balance expected from a dreadnought, yet retains the Yairi voice crafted by that storied wood source. These instruments don’t just represent superior construction — they are living examples of the Alvarez Yairi guitars’ legacy, rooted deeply in rare tonewood and masterful design.
As Alvarez transitions to the new era of quality-controlled Honduran mahogany via Bill Hibden, models like the FYM60HD and DYM60HD serve as touchstones. They help us appreciate the craftsmanship of past stock and anticipate how future Alvarez Yairi guitars will carry that same spirit—enhanced, refined, and ever true to the Yairi name.
The Future of the 60 and 66 Series
The last Alvarez guitars built with the original “car park” wood are expected to arrive by late summer, with shipments wrapping up by mid-August. Starting in September, Alvarez will begin delivering Yairi guitars constructed with Hibden’s Honduran mahogany. This transition not only preserves the beloved series but also ensures long-term continuity for future players.
Possible Changes in Numbering and New Models
As Alvarez looks to the future, changes may also come to the numbering system. Currently, the “6” designation refers to mahogany backs and sides, with the second digit representing the top wood—“0” for Sitka spruce and “6” for mahogany. Alvarez is considering introducing “2” for Adirondack spruce, which would shift models like the DYM66 into new designations such as DYM62.
While this change may initially confuse players attached to the familiar “DYM60” name, it represents Alvarez’s effort to bring clarity and precision to its catalog. At the same time, Alvarez is planning to expand the Yairi lineup with four to six new models arriving in January, plus a special custom DYM66 model handcrafted by Chris Meikle himself.
Alvarez Yairi Guitars and Their Lasting Legacy
The story of Alvarez Yairi guitars is about more than just wood—it’s about legacy, dedication, and the pursuit of excellence. From the serendipitous discovery of the “car park” mahogany to the meticulous search for a worthy replacement, Alvarez has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to its players. These guitars continue to represent a fusion of tradition and innovation, ensuring that the Yairi name remains synonymous with quality for decades to come.
For musicians seeking instruments that carry both history and innovation in their sound, Alvarez Yairi guitars remain a timeless choice. Whether you own one of the final “car park” models or one of the new Hibden-wood guitars, you are holding a piece of guitar history that plays beautifully into the future.
